S’West govs, senators, traditional rulers, others devise plan to tackle insecurity

By Adeola Ogunrinde –

Governors of the South-West, senators, traditional rulers and other stakeholders have outlined a comprehensive strategy to address rising insecurity across the country. The measures were unveiled on Friday at the South-West Zonal National Security Summit, convened by the Senate in partnership with the Lagos State Government. The meeting is one of six being held simultaneously across the geo-political zones.

Welcoming participants, Senator Tokunbo Abiru of Lagos East, who chairs the summit, stressed the need for decisive collaboration to prevent the region from becoming a haven for criminality. He noted that only coordinated, technology-driven and community-rooted initiatives could safeguard the region’s long-standing values of openness, fairness and tolerance.

“Security is a collective responsibility, and while global partnerships can help, real implementation must be local and led by experts who understand our terrain,” Abiru said.

In his goodwill message, Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, Ayodele Ogunsan, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the region’s security architecture. He called for a unified framework that would protect lives and support long-term economic stability.

Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the Alara of Ilara, Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, urged the adoption of community policing, deployment of advanced technology, creation of a joint security task force, annual recruitment of 30,000 police personnel, and increased funding for security agencies. He also advocated for more job opportunities to curb youth restiveness.

Senator Ibrahim Jimoh, sponsor of the National Security Summit Bill, said terrorism and insurgency are forms of non-conventional warfare that demand strong military–civilian cooperation. He emphasised the importance of sustained public education and community engagement.

The Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, reiterated that state policing remains the most effective solution to insecurity. He added that enforcing local government autonomy would give councils the resources needed to secure communities at the grassroots.

Former Ogun State governor and senator representing Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, also called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders. Representatives of security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, and civil society organisations attended the summit, where Christian and Islamic leaders urged improved welfare for security operatives to enhance efficiency and commitment.